Which term describes a category of airborne particles formed by mechanical processes such as crushing?

Which term describes a category of airborne particles formed by mechanical processes such as crushing?

• A. Dusts
• B. Vapors
• C. Fogs
• D. Smokes

Answer: (A)

Airborne particles produced by mechanical processing, such as crushing, are classified as dusts. Dusts are solid particulates formed by physical actions rather than evaporation or combustion. They differ from vapors, which are gas‑phase molecules; from fogs, which are liquid droplets formed by condensation of vapors; and from smokes, which are aerosols created by combustion. Recognizing them as dusts helps guide exposure controls because dusts can include very small particles that reach deep into the lungs.

Airborne particles produced by mechanical processing, such as crushing, are classified as dusts. Dusts are solid particulates formed by physical actions rather than evaporation or combustion. They differ from vapors, which are gas‑phase molecules; from fogs, which are liquid droplets formed by condensation of vapors; and from smokes, which are aerosols created by combustion. Recognizing them as dusts helps guide exposure controls because dusts can include very small particles that reach deep into the lungs.